$500 monthly checks in Texas: Requirements for the program and how to request the checks

The United States has various economic assistance programs for individuals with limited resources. Relief is distributed at the federal, state, county, and local levels, with residents in some areas eligible for far more assistance than others.

Harris County in Texas has allocated $20.5 million towards the Uplif program, which will allow for the sending of $500 checks on a monthly basis to a small group of beneficiaries. In total, over 18 months, those enrolled in the program will receive $9,000. The program was approved by the county in June of this year.

When making the announcement, county officials reported that around “9% of Harris County’s workforce— 200,000 people— are “working poor” with a job that doesn’t pay enough to lift them out of poverty and afford basic needs.” By providing a guaranteed income, the country hopes they will be able to lift families out of poverty.

Who is eligible?

This aid is available specifically for those who reside in Harris County and have low incomes. The aid, a type of guaranteed basic income, is a pilot to test the effects of such a program. The objective of this aid is to provide relief for the population sector with the lowest income by assisting with basic and health needs expenses. A total of 1,500 families will be selected to participate in the program.

To receive the monthly payments, households must meet various eligibility requirements:

How to apply

The application to apply to participate in Uplift has not been made available. For the latest on the program, one can check out the Harris County website and the Counties for a Guaranteed Income.